Which Bag for Which Day? Eight Picks by Situation

Pick a bag by what your day looks like, not by how it looks on a shelf. Eight bags from our store are grouped below by the situation they suit, from the daily commute to a trip with a pet.

How do you choose a bag for your day?

Start with three questions. What will you carry, how far will you carry it, and do you need your hands free? A laptop and a charger point to a backpack. A phone, keys and a card point to something small worn at the waist. A rainy ride on a bike points to something waterproof.

Answer those first and the list gets short quickly. Capacity, comfort and the way a bag closes matter more than a trend. Check each product page for the real size and materials before you order.

Which bags suit a daily commute or school run?

For a weekday routine you want pockets that make sense and a shape that does not feel awkward on a crowded train. If rain is part of your commute, our piece on a compact umbrella for rainy commutes and travel pairs well with these.

Anti Theft Usb Charging Travel Bagpack: an anti-theft backpack with a USB charging cable, meant for school, travel or hiking. The idea is to charge the bag at home and use the cable on the go to top up a phone. Check the product page for the battery details.

Cylinder package Multifunctional Male Fashion Backpack: a cylinder-shaped backpack with room for notebooks, papers and clothing, plus a separate pocket for an iPad or other tablet. It suits someone who wants a bag that looks different from the usual rectangle.

What works on a bike?

Cyclists need a bag that stays put and keeps its contents dry. A bag that bounces on your back is tiring; one that is fixed to the bike frees your shoulders.

Waterproof Cycling Seat Shoulder Bag: a waterproof bag that works on the bike seat and as a shoulder bag once you get off. It fits more than you might expect for its size, so it handles a tool, a snack and a light jacket.

Which bags are good for hiking and day trips?

Outdoors, you want organised space and easy access. Think about whether you prefer a full pack on your back or something small on your hips for the things you reach for most.

Military Multi-tool Kit Bag: a military-style bag with plenty of compartments, which the original listing describes as suited to travel, hiking, camping, fishing and general sport. Many separate pockets make it easier to find small gear quickly.

Pure Leather Unisex Fanny Bag: a leather waist bag for the small things: cash, cards, a phone and keys. It keeps your hands free on a walk, at a market or in a busy station.

How do you travel with a pet?

A carrier backpack leaves your hands free for tickets, bags and doors. Whatever you pick, get your pet used to it at home before the trip. The American Veterinary Medical Association says pets should not be loose in a moving vehicle, and its policy notes that evidence on the safety of individual pet transport products is limited (AVMA policy on safe transport of pets in motor vehicles). In a car, secure the carrier rather than relying on your back. If your pet is anxious or unwell, ask your vet before you travel.

Transparent Breathable Pet Carrier Backpack: a carrier backpack with a transparent, breathable design so your pet can see its surroundings. Check the size and weight limits on the product page against your pet.

What about errands and a bag you can stand out with?

Not every bag has to be a serious piece of kit. Some are just there to be handy, or to be noticed.

Foldable Reusable Earth Friendly Shopping Bag: a reusable shopping bag that folds small, so it can live in a coat pocket or another bag. Carrying your own means you do not need a new single-use bag every time you stop at a shop.

Led Screen Display Wireless Backpack: a backpack with an LED screen on the back that can show the message or image you choose. It is more of a statement than a practical pick, so think about whether you want the attention.

How do you make the final choice?

• Write down what you carry on a normal day and pick a bag that fits it with some room to spare.
• Choose waterproof or weather-resistant if you are outside a lot.
• Think about security: where do the zips sit when it is on your back?
• Look at the strap and back padding if you will carry it for hours.

If you like a bag with personality, take a look at the Big Lips Frog Knitted Bag too.